Dama gazelle - Nanger dama - Middle Africa Desert Herbivores

Dama gazelle - Nanger dama
By Lisa Villarreal
Animal Diversity Web
University of Michigan Museum of Zoology

Habitat
Generally, Nanger dama is found in arid areas with sparse vegetation. However, its habitat changes slightly throughout the year, as this animal migrates seasonally. Dama gazelles resides on the pastures and plateaus of the Sahara desert during the rainy season, and move to the open bushlands in the dry season. This species avoids the mountains and dunes of the region, instead opting for the flatter, stonier plains. Unfortunately, due to overgrazing by livestock, land development by humans, and long term climate change, the habitat of N. dama has become even drier and somewhat less suitable through the years. (Atkins, 2003; Massicot, 2004; Microsoft, 2006; Walther, 1990)

Food Habits
Nanger dama is a grazer, feeding on shrubs, herbs, coarse desert grasses, and Acacia tree leaves. These gazelles often stand on their hind legs in a bipedal fashion in order to reach the higher leaves of these trees. Members of this species are able to get most of the water they need from the plants they eat. (Atkins, 2003; Massicot, 2004)

Visit the website for pictures and to learn more.